by Dr. Marita Schauch, ND, Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre –
As we begin the daydreaming of leaves starting to fall and the air getting that crisp, cool bite, we might look forward to cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice everything, and the upcoming holiday season. But if you’re one of the millions of Canadians who deal with arthritis, you might also be bracing yourself for the not-so-fun part of the season: increased joint pain. Why does arthritis pain flare up in colder weather, and more importantly, what can you do about it? Let’s dive into the science behind it and look at some natural remedies that can help keep your joints happy all season long.
Why Does Cold Weather Aggravate Arthritis?
Let’s talk about why your joints might be throwing a tantrum when the weather changes. While there’s no conclusive answer, there are a few theories:
Barometric Pressure Changes. Some researchers believe that drops in barometric pressure, which often precede cold weather, can cause tissues in your joints to expand, leading to pain.
Cold Stiffens Joints. Lower temperatures can cause the fluid inside your joints to thicken slightly, making them feel stiffer and more painful.
Less Activity. Let’s face it: when it’s chilly outside, it’s tempting to hunker down under a blanket and skip your usual workout. But less movement leads to less blood circulation, which can lead to stiffer joints.
Natural Remedies to Keep Joint Pain at Bay
Keep Your Joints Warm. It may be cold outside but keep those joints warm! Bundle up in layers, wear warm gloves and socks, and consider wrapping knees for an extra layer of insulation.
Keep Moving. While it’s tempting to become a couch potato when the temperature drops, staying active is crucial for managing arthritis. Try to keep up with gentle exercises like yoga, swimming or tai chi to help keep your joints flexible.
Turmeric. This golden spice is a known powerhouse when it comes to reducing inflammation. Sprinkle it in your soups, stews, or enjoy a warm cup of turmeric tea or a golden milk latté.
Collagen. Supplementing with collagen, or enjoying collagen-rich foods such as bone broth, can help with supporting your body’s own production of collagen. Collagen is the “cushioning” supporting our joints and the degeneration of this over time can increase joint pain.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids. These healthy fats have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce joint pain. Enjoy foods rich in omega-3’s, like wild salmon, walnuts and flaxseeds. You can also consider a high-quality Omega-3 supplement.
Ginger. Ginger has great anti-inflammatory benefits. Brew up some warm ginger tea, consider taking ginger supplements or incorporating it into dishes such as a stir-fry, curries, or soups!
If your pain becomes severe or is interfering with your daily life, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider.
